(INDIANAPOLIS) - A blizzard warning has been issued for almost all of Central Indiana for late Tonight/early Wednesday through 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Forecast 8 Chief Meteorologist Steve Bray says that the warning upgrade from winter storm to blizzard is due to the amount of snow and the wind speeds. Snow amounts will be as high as 5" to 9" and some areas could see more.

Wind speeds are expected to be in the 20-30 mph range with gusts up to 40 mph Wednesday. The combination of the snow and wind will create white out conditions, visibility at times will be 1/4 mile or less.

Blowing and drifting of the snow will be likely and make the clearing of roadways a challenge, so travel will be limited.

The precipitation will begin late tonight and fall throughout the day Wednesday. Some areas in South Central Indiana will receive freezing rain and sleet that could accumulate to 1/4 inch or more.

The combination of ice and wind could lead to downed trees and power lines; power outages are possible.